2021 Ram 3500

2021 Ram 3500

Overview

The 2021 Ram 3500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck designed for demanding work and towing applications. It offers robust powertrains and a durable chassis, generally reflecting a strong reliability record for its class. While most owners report satisfaction, like any vehicle, specific components can experience issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, examining common problem areas across its available engine and transmission configurations. The goal is to provide a clear picture of potential technical challenges owners might encounter.

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Engine

6.4L HEMI V8

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel

DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) System Issues

• Symptoms: Check Engine light, reduced engine power, stalling, DEF quality warnings.
• Solution: Cleaning or replacement of DEF tank, pump, or sensors. Software updates may also be required.
• Cost: $500 - $1500

Turbocharger Issues

• Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises, black smoke, increased oil consumption.
• Solution: Inspection and potential replacement of the turbocharger assembly.
• Cost: $1500 - $3000

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (68RFE)

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

6-Speed Automatic (Aisin AS69RC)

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

Suspension

Standard Chassis

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

Electrical

General Electrical System

Infotainment System Glitches

• Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsiveness, Bluetooth connectivity issues, navigation errors.
• Solution: Software updates, hard resets, or potential replacement of the infotainment unit.
• Cost: $300 - $1200

Exterior

Body and Trim

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

Interior

Cabin Components

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

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Summary Verdict

The 2021 Ram 3500 demonstrates solid reliability, particularly with its HEMI V8 engine and standard transmissions. The 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel, while powerful, has a few documented issues, primarily related to the DEF system and turbocharger, which are not uncommon for modern diesel powertrains. Electrical gremlins, specifically with the infotainment system, are also noted but often resolvable with software updates. Overall, the Ram 3500 is a dependable heavy-duty truck, with most potential issues being manageable and not indicative of systemic failures across the entire model range.